I've been looking forward to reading this book since I first heard about it a few months back. With this level of anticipation it is often possible to be disappointed with the item when it arrives. Fortunately this is not one of those occasions.

The first section of this book contains examples of illustrations from books, calendars etc showing some of the best of Jael's fantasy and science fiction artwork, combined with John Grant's text giving a history of the life and work of Jael. Here we get to see such absolute gems as Dream Fantasy/Galespace and 'Letters to Jenny'.

However it's the next section which is the main emphasis of this book. Perceptualistics are the semi-abstract works Jael has been producing and selling privately throughout her career but which have only recently been seen by a wider audience. And these paintings defintely deserve that increased exposure.

Unlike the book covers and other works in the first section, these paintings almost seem to have grown rather than their having been created. There is a much more organic feel to these pictures, as well as a peaceful much subtler mood. Many of the images have a grace and fluidity that is not often seen in the world of fantasy/science fiction art.

The overall feel of this section is embodied in the title, Perceptualistics. These are not "in-your-face" images. They are Jael's perception of the world. Incredibly impressionistic rather than realist. The colour use is often subtle and tonal rather than the jarring primary colours often used by artists in this genre. This helps to create continuity throughout the book. The images flow freely from page to page, interspersed with relevant and thought-provoking quotes.

This is a truly stunning book, visually, emotionally and physically! The presentation is superb, the reproductions of a wonderfully high quality allowing the reader to see the beauty of the images without being obscured in the printing process. This is a book that should appear on the shelf of any Fantastic Art fan, and it is one that will be taken done and reread on many occasions, there will always be something new that can be seen in these images.